Love. Faith. Romance. Australia.

At the close of 1821, the penal colony of Newcastle looks to be every bit as black as it’s painted. Emma Colchester charters a ride to Australia with a promise of marriage to a man she has never met. But appearances aren’t always as they seem. And with a commitment unavoidable Emma learns that shackles are not always forged from iron. Tobias Freeman longs for redemption and hope. After a rough journey to New South Wales, Tobias learns the rations, the regulations, and the reprisal. But neither Emma nor Tobias expect the repercussions.

About the Author

D.J. Blackmore grew up in the wine growing region of the Hunter Valley, New South Wales and is currently based in Central Queensland.

She draws inpiration for her historical fiction novels from her love of age-old crafts such as spinning and cheese making. She considers being the mother of five, her greatest achievement.

Amanda’s Review

Being a fan of historical romance, especially Australian, I have been looking forward to this novel for months. And I wasn’t disappointed. D.J. Blackmore has presented a wonderful debut novel in Charter to Redemption, and it had all the elements I like in my fiction: Aussie history, romance, a little suspense and an edifying message.

Blackmore really showed how looks can be deceiving. Someone of consequence, who says and does the right things (apparently) might be harbouring dark thoughts and plans. On the other hand, someone who appears to be the dregs of society might just have a heart of gold. It is a great reminder that God looks on the heart, not on the outward presentation of a person.

If you, like me, enjoy a historical romance, then you will also love Charter to Redemption. I will be looking forward to future novels from this author. Recommended.

She has given herself a chance to fix her personal history. But will old mistakes bring up new emotions?

Imogen Browne longs to make up for past mistakes before she can move on. She quietly resolves to help the Dorazio family, whose lives she accidentally upset. Her biggest challenge is Asher, the one person who may never forgive her. And he is facing a crisis of his own. Imogen must tread very carefully, as trying to fix things may well make them shatter.

A sensitive story about misplaced loyalty, celebrating life and falling in love. Can family secrets concealed with the best intentions bear the light of day?

About the Author

Paula Vince’s youth was brightened by great fiction and she’s on a mission to pay it forward. A wife and homeschooling mother, she loves to highlight the beauty of her own country in her stories. Most of them are set in the lovely Adelaide Hills, where she lives. Paula’s books are a skillful blend of drama and romance. Together with elements of mystery and suspense, you will keep turning pages.

Amanda’s Review:

I’m a fan of Paula Vince’s books and Imogen’s Chance didn’t disappoint. I love that Paula delves into interesting topics while keeping me turning the pages with a bit of intrigue and romance as well. It was great to watch the growing relationship between Imogen and Asher even as they dealt with difficult issues in their lives — issues that threatened that very relationship.

I took away a great idea from this book. That sometimes the journey of faith might not work out the way we were believing, but that doesn’t make us a failure — just like an athlete who doesn’t achieve the number one ranking is not a failure either. We still applaud them for their efforts and hard work. Faith is a journey and it is what we learn in the process that is important, not necessarily the final result.

I heartily recommend this novel to anyone who loves contemporary romance with a bit more substance than most.

And she’s incredibly grateful when Jack Bradley offers her a job on his apple farm. Working side by side in the orchards with her best friend’s brother seems like the perfect way to get over her disastrous engagement. Until Kate finds herself falling hard for the handsome farmer.

Jack Bradley knows city-girl Kate isn’t here to stay. Yet suddenly he’s imagining a life with her in the country. When Kate considers going back to the city, can Jack find a way to show her that her real home is here on the farm, by his side?

About the Author

NARELLE ATKINS writes contemporary inspirational romance and lives in Canberra, Australia. She sold her debut novel, set in Australia, to Harlequin’s Love Inspired Heartsong Presents line in a six-book contract. She is also a member of International Christian Fiction Writers group blog.http://internationalchristianfictionwriters.blogspot.com

Narelle is a co-founder with Jenny Blake of the Australian Christian Readers Blog Alliance (ACRBA). http://acrba.blogspot.com

Her debut book, Falling for the Farmer, will be a February 2014 release, followed by The Nurse’s Perfect Match in May 2014 andThe Doctor’s Return in August 2014.

Amanda’s Review

It is great to see an Australian author hit the shelves through the Heartson Presents range of romances, and I congratulate Narelle for that.

Falling for the Farmer is a light and easy read with a simple and satisfying plot. I enjoyed Narelle’s writing style and the way she wove Christian concepts through the storyline without sounding preachy.

If you enjoy a shorter read with a straightforward romance plot, then you will enjoy Falling for the Farmer.

After the Great War, Abby Fraser returns to India with her small son, where her husband is stationed with the British army. She has longed to go home to the land of glittering palaces and veiled women . . . but Nick has become a cruel stranger. It will take more than her American pluck to survive.

Major Geoff Richards, broken over the loss of so many of his men in the trenches of France, returns to his cavalry post in Amritsar. But his faith does little to help him understand the ruthlessness of his British peers toward the Indian people he loves. Nor does it explain how he is to protect Abby Fraser and her child from the husband who mistreats them.

Amid political unrest, inhospitable deserts, and Russian spies, tensions rise in India as the people cry for the freedom espoused by Gandhi. Caught between their own ideals and duty, Geoff and Abby stumble into sinister secrets . . . secrets that will thrust them out of the shadows and straight into the fire of revolution.

About the Author

Christine Lindsay writes historical inspirational novels with strong love stories, and she takes pride in her Irish roots. Her great grandfather and grandfather worked as riveters in the Belfast shipyard, one of those ships her ancestors helped build was the Titanic. On her mother’s side it was stories of ancestors who served in the British Cavalry in India that seeded Christine’s long-time fascination with the British Raj and became the stimulus for her Twilight of the British Raj series.The Pacific coast of Canada, about 200 miles north of Seattle, is Christine’s home where she lives with her husband, David, and they enjoy the visits from their adult children and grandchildren. Like a lot of authors, Christine’s chief editor is her cat

Amanda’s Review

I have to admit I read Shadowed in Silk after Captured by Moonlight, so in the wrong order. But it didn’t really matter too much. It was great to read the story of characters that were only mentioned a little in the second novel. They both can be read as stand alone novels.

Once again I was transported to the exotic setting of India amidst the turmoil of political upheaval. That backdrop gave the story great tension and kept me turning the pages. And I loved the way the romance built between the main characters. There were enough twists and turns to keep me satisfied until I put Shadowed in Silk down with a sigh of contentment.

I look forward to the third instalment of the Twilight of the British Raj series and I recommend Christine’s novels to anyone who loves a good romance with a bit of suspense and a different setting.

While he searches for the last king to gain total control, two orphaned brothers and an Elf girl begin a quest to locate the seven lost crystals of the Morning Star. This jewel alone holds the key to Morgran’s overthrow. Their journey leads them through the perilous land of Gardenia, where their friendship is tested. But one dark secret threatens to tear them apart altogether … Firelight of Heaven is the first volume in the Bethloria fantasy series. Greenheart of the Forest, Book 2 is due for release 2014.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Elizabeth (Lizbeth) Klein and I live in the Sutherland Shire with my husband, Malcolm. I have over 19 years experience in the classroom and 6 years as Tutor of English for both Primary and High School students. Four of my students have completed actual novels (unpublished).

I have published several stories for the Yellow Box, a reading kit for early readers in Primary School. I have also had many on-line Educational articles and lessons published as well as poetry and stories in two anthologies. Currently I am writing a fantasy series and have almost completed the fourth book. There are three to go in the Bethloria series.

Review by Jacinta – aged 12

I really like fantasy, and this one didn’t disappoint me. In Firelight of Heaven, the evil King Morgan wants to take over Bethloria. Two boys, Robbie and Dougray, climb the forbidden mountain to escape Morgan’s soldiers. Over the other side they meet a strange Elf girl, Belle Shadow-chaser, who joins them on a journey to find the seven crystals hidden in the seven lost lands to destroy King Morgan.

I like the action and adventure because it kept me turning the pages. I also like the characters because they are cool. I didn’t like that I didn’t know it was a series, so now I need to wait for the other books. It was exciting and I can’t wait for the next one. I need it NOW!!!

I would recommend this book to 10+ year old girls and boys who like action, adventure and fantasy.

Resolution Island is a safe haven for Anika Demeur – a chance to fulfil dreams, find her place in the world, and a new life for her and young son, Kye. But her dreams of a future are shattered when her son’s security is challenged, and the rich and privileged Texan, Nate Hollingsworth sails into the bay. Now Ani must not only fight for her son, but also a growing attraction she has to the one type of man she loathes.

Nate is on a mission – to fulfill his mother’s last wish, and change his life. Dropping anchor in the idyllic Resolution harbor, he didn’t anticipate becoming involved in illegal fishing, a murder, or an unexpected attraction to the most exasperating woman he has ever met.

The Australian tropical Island, Resolution, sets the scene again for adventures, dreams, and new beginnings. A New Resolution is the final book in the ‘Resolution’ trilogy, following Back to Resolution and Beyond Resolution.

About the Author:

Rose Dee was born in Ingham, North Queensland, Australia. Her childhood experiences growing up in a small beach community would later provide inspiration for her first novel. Rose, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, decided to try her hand at writing two years ago. The result of that attempt is her first novel, Back to Resolution. Her novels are inspired by the love of her coastal home and desire to produce exciting and contemporary stories of faith for women. Rose’s other releases include Beyond Resolution – the second book in the ‘Resolution’ series. And A New Resolution the final book in the series. Rose has also co-written a novel in conjunction with three other outstanding Australian Authors: The Greenfield Legacy. Rose resides in Mackay, North Queensland with her husband, young son, and mischievous pup, Noodle.

Amanda’s Review:

As with the previous novels in the Resolution Series, I greately enjoyed this final episode. It was great to see the characters from previous novels make their appearances without detracting from Nate, Anika and Kye’s story. I always love a great romance with a bit of mystery thrown in to keep me turning the pages, and A New Resolution didn’t let me down.

Rose doesn’t hide the realities of life, including its tempations, fromher writing, and I love that raw honesty that comes through. Especially the pull of the physical versus the choice to do what is right. This came through even in Anika’s dealing with Kye’s reaction to the wrong around him. And of course, there is the tropical setting of North Queensland, which makes you feel like you are on a warm summer holiday.

I congratulate Rose on winning the CAELB Award for Fiction for this novel. It is well worth it. I recommend A New Resolution to all those who love a strong romance with something extra.

Giveaway:

For all ACRBA members who post the will get an entry into this giveaway. All who leave a comment on any blogs will get an entry into the giveaway. The more blogs you comment on the more entries. This giveaway is open to Australian readers. To enter you need to answer a question about what part of North Queensland you would like to see or leave a comment with a question for Rose. Comments saying sounds interesting enter me will not be equate to an entry. Also leave a way to contact you if you win for example myemail at mymail dot com. entries open til Thursday 12 Dec.

FIRST PRIZE:

E-Reader (Details below) AND: an e-reader version of each one of my 4 novels – the 3 ‘Resolution’ series novels, and The Greenfield Legacy (gifted via email).

E-Reader:

Reader™ with 6.0″ paper-like touch screen (Red)

Model:

PRST2RC

This slim and light Reader with touch screen puts thousands of your favourite stories at your fingertips. Effortlessly turn the page with a swipe of your finger and the glare-free screen reads just like a real book, even under direct sunlight.

•6″ E-Ink® Pearl is designed to feel like a real book with a glare-free paper-like screen for reading

•Battery life of up to 2 months with wireless off and up to 1.5 months with wireless on. Up to 30,000 continuous page turns when reading only

•Let your friends and family know what you are reading and share excerpts up to 140 characters with Facebook® built into the Reader™

•Access public library eBooks and PDF files through the integrated OverDrive® service

•eBook purchases will need to be completed via computer

SECOND PRIZE:

A copy of ‘The Greenfield Legacy’, and a Silver and Amber Grapevine inspired pendant. Really pretty, and ties in nicely with TGL as it is set on a vineyard in the McLaren Vale region. Also the cover is pendant inspired.

Elizabeth Waverly never dreamed that taking a convict transport back to her home in Australia would change her life. But from the moment she lays eyes on John Martin, she cannot resist her growing attraction to him. She knows the man faces a life sentence for murder, but her heart refuses to believe he is guilty of the charges against him. How could someone who so valiantly protects others and accepts another prisoner’s punishment be a brutal felon? Yet once the transport ship lands in Australia, their paths are bound to head in very different directions. Is their love destined to become a bittersweet memory of what might have been, or will faith show them another way?

About the Author

Mary is a multi-published Australian romance author with 19 titles. After being published by Harlequin Mills and Boon medicals, Heartsong Presents and Barbour, her most recent single title Bargagula series is published by Ark House Press in Sydney. I am a member of the Society Women Writers Tasmania, Romance Writers of Australia, Omega Writers, Australian Christian Writers Fellowship, American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers America and their Faith Hope Love chapter. My Heartsong Presents back list titles are being released by Truly Yours Digital Editions. Faith in the Great Southland is now available with the other 3 in this series to be released June and July. She is available to speak and share what she has learnt about writing novels, her writing journey and faith in our incredible God. For more about Mary, go to her website.

Amanda’s Review:

I remember reading Faith in the Great Southland years ago. Being a fan of historical romance, I craved a novel of this kind set in my beloved Australia. I was so excited to discover Mary Hawkin’s works, and devoured Faith in the Great Southland and its sequels. Mary very quickly became one of my favourite Aussie authors. If you haven’t read any of her novels yet, then you’re missing out! Grab one today.🙂

Rather than offer Michelle Dennis Evans the usual kind of interview, I asked her to share either how she met her partner, her testimony of faith, or something interesting from her family heritage. Michelle has chosen to tell us about how she met her hubby.

Made For Each Other

Eighteen years ago, I headed off to improve myself at RYLA a leadership camp run by the local Rotary clubs. There I met a long-haired very good-looking boy called Shane. Soon after camp, we began dating. I realised he was a valuable catch, but I’d just come out of a serious relationship and I wasn’t ready for the ‘happily ever after boyfriend.’ So I dumped him.

Bless his heart … he didn’t give up on me. Even when he was dating other girls he would whisper in my ear that he’d drop them in a second for me. (OK so he wasn’t perfect – LOL)

During the year that followed, we were both selected to return to the next RYLA camp as leaders. As we worked together we became good friends (the foundation of our relationship) but I still wasn’t ready to settle down. Neither of us were living a Christian lifestyle and I found that every time I had a couple of drinks, I couldn’t keep away from him.

We have just celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary.

I knew from just weeks after meeting Shane that he would be the perfect husband for me. Family of origin plays a huge part in all relationships – Shane and I both grew up in Mass attending Catholic homes with multiple similarities in work ethic, schooling and social beliefs. Not only have we grown together as a couple, but we have grown together spiritually as well.

Can you see how your family of origin has played a part in your relationship with your husband/wife/partner?

Thanks for sharing that story with us, Michelle. It sounds like you were destined to be together. My hubby and I celebrate our 16th wedding anniversary this coming weekend! Having a similar family upbringing definitely makes it easier to relate to each other.

Last week I reviewed Michelle’s debut novel, Spiralling Out of Control, which you can read here. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your response to Michelle’s question above. And remember, you can learn more about her at these addresses:

From the Back Cover:

Temptation, depression, seduction, betrayal… Not what Stephanie was expecting at fifteen years of age. Uprooted from her happy, all-girl high school life with a dream filled future and thrown into an unfriendly co-ed school, Stephanie spirals into depression.
When charismatic high school senior, Jason notices her, Stephanie jumps in feet first and willingly puts all her faith and trust in him, a boy she barely knows.
Every choice she makes and turn she takes leads her towards a dangerous path.
Her best friend is never far away and ready to catch her … but will she push Tabbie too far away when she needs her most?

Amanda’s Review:

Spiralling Out of Control was a challenging read, a hard read. I almost didn’t finish it, but not because it was badly written. On the contrary, it was written with such painful reality that I found it hard to go on. But, I am glad I followed through to the end, for there was a glimmer of hope that I am sure will stretch into the sequel to come.

This is the kind of novel that is a must read for teenagers as an eye opener as to what a few bad choices, and hiding said choices from your family, can lead to. It also serves as a warning to parents, to really invest time into their teenagers and be aware of what they do with their lives.

Congratulations to Michelle on a great debut novel. I was so heartbroken for Steph as I neared the end, and I hope she can turn her life around in the next book. Spiralling Out of Control is not for the faint hearted, definitely for readers fifteen years and up.

Thanks to the author for a free review copy.

About the Author:

In the 80’s Michelle wrote her first book called “The Googles V Manelopes” (V would be short for verses) when she was eleven. Hand written and (dismally) self illustrated it still proudly sits on her bookshelf today. What was noticed as talent in her tween years was crushed by teachers in her teens. It took Michelle fifteen years to find the courage to dream about becoming a writer again and enrol in a writing course.

Michelle not only writes to nourish her soul but also to inspire, take people on a journey and escape their world. She believes you can find healing or hope when you read about someone else’s story – fiction or truth.

Michael Trevelyan is determined to claim his inheritance at all costs. Bitterness consumes him and he refuses to forgive those who have betrayed him. Yet, when he meets Alexandra Hope, things begin to change. She challenges his views but also listens while he shares his pain. Can Michael move on from the past and learn to forgive? Can Alexandra hold onto her faith in God as she deals with their deepening relationship? Can they both learn to trust each other – and God? The Inheritance is a stirring story of family secrets, forgiveness and faith – of leaving behind a dark, painful legacy and walking into the light of God’s eternal inheritance.

About the Author:

Jo-Anne Berthelsen lives in Sydney but grew up in Brisbane. She holds degrees in Arts and Theology and has worked as a high school teacher, editor and secretary, as well as in local church ministry. Jo-Anne loves communicating through both the written and spoken word. She is the author of five published novels – Heléna, All the Days of My Life, Laura, Jenna and Heléna’s Legacy, with a sixth, The Inheritance, due for release in 2013. Her first non-fiction work Soul Friend: The story of a shared spiritual journey was released in October 2012. Jo-Anne loves music, reading, mentoring younger women, and sharing with community groups about writing. She is married to a retired minister and has three grown-up children and three grandchildren. For more information, please visit www.jo-anneberthelsen.com or www.soulfriend.com.au.

Amanda’s Review:

First of all, while The Inheritance did not take me on a thrill ride of adventure like most books I tend to read, it did take me on a different kind of journey. An inward journey — an insight into the way bitterness and unforgiveness can wear away at a heart and life until it even affects a person physically.

Michael Trevelyan’s character is entirely believeable in that way, and it was good to watch him discover things about himself and learn to change and grow, leaving the past behind him gradually. Alexandra was a warm character although I missed her not being there for much of the second half of the book.

Strangely, I did feel like I’d come to a satisfying conclusion just past two chapters from the end, when Michael finally let go of the past. From there on it just felt like winding up details, and I don’t think I would have missed that if it wasn’t there. All in all, though an enjoyable read.

The Inherticance would be a great tool for those who are struggling with a painful past and how to move forward.